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Goodbye everyone, we’ll miss you

Northern ramblings: By Kate Henry

It’s almost over…
While those who have worked that little bit harder over these last few weeks may breathe a sigh of relief when the final whistle blows this weekend, one can’t help feeling a little sad.
A few years ago no one, not even us, thought we could do it. Six months ago nothing had changed. Then, as if a light was switched on, the city came alive, bursting with flags, songs, dances and a wave of yellow shirts. Even after the boys were thumped and many vowed to burn those shirts, most kept up the spirit and felt proud, if not a little disappointed, to walk out of the tournament heads held high. If anyone expected the flags to stop fluttering over houses or atop cars, they were mistaken. Mine certainly will remain until that final whistle blows.
The energy the tournament has brought to the normally apathetic streets of Joburg has been fantastic. What I’ll probably miss most is the little moments. No, this isn’t a Hallmark card. I’m talking about watching a Brazilian and Chilean supporter yell at each other in Spanish over the ecstatic blowing of a vuvuzela – only an hour after hearing Shosholoza sung in thick Spanish accents. Or grinning at the German visitor who decides to don a mirror-sock as a hat. And the joy of walking through Sandton City and silently hoping that Argentina and Brazil make it to the finals because it will mean their very good-looking supporters will be here a bit longer.
But my favourite moment has to be standing outside getting some fresh air in the square and being approached by two very South African guys with the oh so cool pick-up line of, ‘Where you from eh?’
‘Joburg, my bru.’

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Kate Henry